General information leaflet regarding telephone clinics - paediatrics

What is a telephone clinic?

• Telephone clinics are outpatient appointments conducted by telephone.
• A dedicated time period on a certain day will be allocated to you, but rather than the appointment taking place in a hospital clinic, it will be done with you over the telephone.

Why have they been set up?

• Telephone clinics have been designed to offer you a more convenient appointment.
• Outpatient clinics are increasingly full and some patients travel very long distances to attend clinics as part of a specialist service.
• We have therefore set up a telephone clinic to discuss your ongoing health issues and results without you having to come to the hospital.

How do these clinics work?

• As with any other clinic, you will be sent your clinic date and time in the post. During your allocated appointment time we ask you to remain close to your telephone and ensure it is not in use.
• The number we ring is entirely your choice, but we recommend suggesting a number where you feel comfortable talking to us.

What if others want to listen to our consultation?

• We will need to hold the consultation with the parent/guardian and sometimes the child. Should you have a speaker phone and wish others to listen in on our consultation that is entirely your choice and decision.

What happens if I don’t answer the telephone at the time of my appointment?

• If you do not answer the telephone within the first few minutes of your appointment time, please be aware that this will constitute a DID NOT ATTEND (D.N.A) in line with Trust policy.

What if I prefer to come to clinic?

• The choice to attend a Hospital based clinic is entirely yours. The telephone clinic is offered as an alternative for you to choose which option suits you best.
• If you prefer face to face contact, at any given time, you are very welcome to attend outpatient clinics as before.

Will I always be followed up in this manner?

• Not necessarily. As long as you have no new symptoms or concerns that need action then telephone clinics are ideal. If we wish to see you so that we can undertake a clinical examination we will ask you to come to the clinic.

What if I am not able at the date and time of the telephone appointment?

• If you are unable to make the scheduled telephone appointment it is essential that you contact us so that we can arrange a different appointment time that is convenient to you. This will allow us to offer the appointment slot to another patient.
• Please call clinic 6 to rearrange the appointment on 01223 274555.

Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS):

• If you, your relatives or your carers are unhappy with any aspect of your care while you are attending an outpatient telephone clinic. You should speak to a member of the clinic staff as soon as possible. If you feel unable to speak directly to staff, then contact PALS on 01223 216756 or email them, who will be able to assist you.